Endoscope Handle Hoop Assembly for Precise Tube Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes, particularly duodenoscopes, face challenges in intuitive handling due to non-forward viewing angles, complex assembly processes, and high costs, which are exacerbated by the need for disposable endoscopes, and precise angular orientation of the insertion tube with respect to the handle is difficult to achieve during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly for endoscopes comprising shell-shaped housing parts with annular recesses and a hoop for secure engagement, along with a coupling member to facilitate easy and cost-effective assembly, ensuring precise rotational alignment of the insertion tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional assembly methods are used for endoscope handle housing parts, then assembly complexity increases and precision is difficult to achieve, but using simplified coupling mechanisms increases manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is pre-formed with specific geometric features (recesses, protrusions, cam surfaces) that automatically establish the correct angular orientation when engaged with the handle housing parts. This preliminary preparation of the coupling member allows precise angular alignment to be achieved during assembly without requiring complex alignment procedures or specialized tooling, thus improving both assembly ease and manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary element between the first and second handle housing parts. It features complementary geometric interfaces (recesses matching protrusions, cam surfaces) that mediate the connection and automatically establish the precise angular orientation of the insertion tube relative to the handle. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the assembly process while ensuring manufacturing precision through its designed geometry
2Ease of manufacture
If disposable endoscopes are implemented to reduce sterilization costs, then material costs increase, but reusing endoscopes increases sterilization and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope is segmented into modular components, with the handle assembly being a distinct module that can be manufactured cost-effectively using simplified coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows the disposable endoscope to be constructed from multiple affordable parts, reducing overall material costs while maintaining functional integrity, making the disposable model more economically viable compared to sterilization and maintenance of reusable units
3Adaptability or versatility
If the camera and working channel exit are positioned at an angle to the insertion cord for duodenoscope functionality, then handling intuitiveness decreases, but if positioned forward it loses duodenoscope capability
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member incorporates cam surfaces and geometric features that provide tactile feedback to the operator during assembly, ensuring the insertion tube is oriented at the correct angle relative to the handle. This feedback mechanism ensures the camera and working channel exit are positioned at the required angle for duodenoscope functionality while maintaining consistent, intuitive handling characteristics through precise angular positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A handle (4) for an endoscope (1) includes a first shell-shaped (6) housing part and a second shell shaped housing part (7) adapted for mutual engagement so as to form a housing. The shell-shaped housing parts (6, 7) include a first recess (10) and a second recess (11) so arranged and configured that when the first and second shell-shaped housing parts (6, 7) are mutually engaged, a circumferential recess is provided in the exterior surface of the housing. The handle (4) further includes a hoop (28) adapted to be received in the circumferential recess and hold the first and second shell-shaped housing parts together.